The state of Massachusetts has committed $113.8 million to improve Housatonic Railroad's Berkshire Line in that state. But Connecticut and federal support is still needed to make the return of passenger service to northwestern Connecticut a reality.

The Massachusetts legislature approved Gov. Deval Patrick's five-year transportation spending proposal last week. In it, $113.8 million is earmarked for improvements to the Berkshire Line.

U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty, D-Conn., is cautiously optimistic about the promise of economic viability that such a restoration could bring to western Connecticut. She said she has spoken with Gov. Dannel P. Malloy about exploring the restoration of passenger service. But she is still waiting to hear from more of her constituents on the proposal.

"This is in the early stages of receiving broader community support, Esty acknowledged that Housatonic's presentations highlight the opportunity for job and tourism growth, as well as the ability for residents of this region to commute south to jobs. Esty serves on the Rail Subcommittee of the House of Representatives Transportation & Infrastructure Committee.

Colin Pease, vice president of special projects for Housatonic Railroad, is encouraged by the public support that is coming from Connecticut. "In Canaan, support is strong," Pease said. "This is probably the most important economic growth component for western Connecticut. Parents in Canaan are speaking out for the need to provide economic hope for the region's youth."

An online petition requesting Malloy to support funding to reinstate passenger service to northwest Connecticut had garnered 2,741 signatures as of Saturday.

Nancy Saggese, manager of Candlelight Farm Inn, is one of several residents in the New Milford area who have signed. "Being in tourism, I see the problem people have getting to this area. Many people from New York City don't drive. I can see New Milford just blooming with people coming in, people on their way to the Berkshires," Saggese added.

Despite such public enthusiasm, state Sen. Clark Chapin is not hopeful. He questions "if the economic gain would outweigh the cost of the investment," while believing the proposal is worth exploring. "I have only heard from a handful of people in the northwest corner on the issue and reactions are mixed," Chapin said.